Meet our volunteers: Hello my name is… Wayne
Posted 28th August 2020
Get to know Wayne
Q. Introduce yourself…
A. #Hellomynameis… Wayne and I have Asperger Syndrome, a form of Autism Spectrum Condition and was diagnosed at the age of 45 with numerous health and medical conditions too. Nevertheless, I have recently completed and graduated with a Degree of Master of Science (MSc) in Project Management.
I’m also a COVID-19 Community Volunteer playing a vital role in demonstrating leadership, initiative and commitment, being on hand and providing support to the most vulnerable people in our local community.
Q. Why did you choose to volunteer at Clatterbridge Cancer Centre – Liverpool?
A. I lost my Mum 14 years ago to bowel cancer. She had to have and cope with intense chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatments but despite everything she remained dignified and majestic. You couldn’t meet my mum and not be inspired by her energy and wisdom - the best mum in the world.
I am looking to help, assist and offer support even in a little way to both patients and staff at Clatterbridge Cancer Centre – Liverpool. I would like to thank The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre for the opportunity you have given me by creating a volunteer role for people with complex disabilities as we have so much to offer and working in such a diverse welcoming team has been a great experience.
Q. How do you think your role as a volunteer will contribute to improving patient care?
A. As volunteers we focus on person-centred care which is putting the person at the heart of everything we do. As a result, caring is a vital part of my role. You will see me around the hospital with my sunflower lanyard symbolising hidden disabilities and I hope I can raise awareness with staff and patients who may have hidden disabilities such as autism.
Q. What is the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
A. To encourage, cultivate and follow a passion and take the action which will make it happen
Q. If you were stranded on a desert island, what three things would you have to have with you?
A. Endless supply of drinking water, comfy reclining chair and a pair of my favourite running trainers.
Q. What would people be surprised to discover about you?
A. That I wasn’t diagnosed with autism/asperger syndrome until I was 45. I also have three adorable children and delivered my middle son at home!
Did you enjoy meeting Wayne? Well, we have lots of other volunteers you can meet, like Jaz a third year law student or Fliss an adult nursing student.
